5 Fantasy Writing Prompts Linked to Scotland

Andrew Hodges
Jul 19, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Jul 2

5 Fantasy Writing Prompts Linked to Scotland

I’ve picked five settings in Scotland, in and around the Stirling – Edinburgh – Glasgow triangle, that inspire the imagination. These are all popular destinations that are well worth visiting!

If you’re stuck with a story, why not visit one to do a little research and deepen your novel’s sense of place? Keeping a diary of your trip and making notes on your experience and associations you have will provide a treasure trove of information that you can draw on later.

I recommend making separate notes of your impressions for each of the five senses, and you can include reflections during and after the trip, along with a short summary of what you did too. That way, you have research and a souvenir!

But if you can’t travel there anytime soon, then nae bother! Just look at the pictures and have a go at the fantasy writing prompts.

1) National Wallace Monument

The National Wallace Monument is on the outskirts of Stirling. My first association was with the tower of Sauron! It’s a steep walk up, but well worth it for the views and to learn about the Battle of Stirling Bridge and other important historical events.

Fantasy writing prompt:

Someone has summoned you here. Who are they, and what do they want? How do you feel as you enter and walk up the stairs. What happens next?

2) Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle was very much lived in, and it feels much more homely than Edinburgh Castle (which was more of a barracks). This is one of my favorite places to visit in Scotland, and they often organise special days with people dressed in traditional medieval costumes.

Fantasy writing prompt:

Snow covers the mountains in the distance. As you approach the castle, you hear a lion’s roar from within the courtyard. What happens next?

3) The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle

This castle is synonymous with Edinburgh!

Fantasy writing prompt:

You feel the warmth of the fire as you stand in the Great Hall. You turn around to see a door open. “Don’t move off that blue square!” a voice shouts. Who is shouting, and what happens next?

4) Loch Lomond

If you ever want to get away from it all without going to the Cairngorms, then Loch Lomond is perfect. My favorite activity is to hire a kayak and paddle out to the islands in the middle.

Fantasy writing prompt:

After three days’ travel, you reach the shores of Loch Lomond. You squint and see an island in the middle, with something unusual moving around on it. Is it a unicorn? You find a rowing boat and row toward it. What happens next?

5) The Kelpies

Kelpies are a shape-changing aquatic spirit. You can see these sculptures if you drive up from Edinburgh to Stirling via Falkirk. They’re really impressive!